May 2025 Newsletter - Conversations | Katy Napper
Katy Napper: Answering the Call to Care: A Path for Every Willing Heart
“I want to help, but I don’t know how.”
“I want to apply Christian Science when giving care—but I’m not sure how the spiritual and practical connect.”
“I’d love to learn, but I can’t leave home for months to take a course.”
These heartfelt concerns are being answered through an inspiring collaboration between Glenmont Christian Science Nursing in Ohio and Christian Science Nurse Connections (CSNC) in California. At the heart of this effort is long-time Christian Science nurse educator Katy Napper, now based at The Willows in Southern California.
With 20 years experience at Glenmont as a Christian Science Nursing Instructor and Mentor, Katy continues to teach and mentor Christian Science nurses while meeting the growing need for home-based training. Thanks to support from Glenmont, CSNC, and generous donors, Katy established a training villa at The Willows—a fully equipped classroom space where Christian Science caregivers can receive instruction in ethics, communication, and practical care skills.
Over the past three years, this training space has hosted:
Christian Science Nursing Retreats
Caregiver classes and workshops for Christian Scientists
Classroom portions of Levels 1, 2, & 3 of Christian Science Nursing Education
Ongoing mentoring in collaboration with Christian Science care facilities around the country
The impact has been deeply felt both within The Willows and across the region. Ten local residents and many others in the area have participated in a Retreat, strengthening their spiritual understanding and practical readiness to support one another with loving, ethical care.
These Retreats are a highlight—offering a five-day immersive experience in both metaphysical study and hands-on care practice. Many participants report discovering a newfound love for Christian Science nursing, whether as a calling or simply a deeper expression of church.
And yes, healing is happening. One remarkable example: A student and Katy responded to a private duty call where a woman was unable to speak or move. Within minutes of their arrival—and through prayerful, ethical support—she was sitting up, speaking, and walking again. “Healing unfolded as we watched,” Katy recalls.
This work is a powerful response to Mary Baker Eddy’s provision for Christian Science nursing. It helps ensure our movement is equipped with spiritually grounded, ethically trained caregivers who can meet the needs of those who rely on Christian Science for healing.
“We don’t love our neighbor by allowing self-neglect,” Katy shares.
“There could be enough loving skilled care available — if only we had more Christian Scientists willing to be trained.”
If you or someone in your community would benefit from Christian Science caregiver education or support, or if you’re simply curious to learn more about what Katy is doing, reach out to Christian Science Nurse Connections or Glenmont for more information.
Together, we are making channels for Love to flow—right into the heart of our homes.
